Police said in a statement on Saturday: “It is established that the incident, which led to widespread travel disruption, was caused by numerous instances of illegal drone activity at the site between 19 and 21 December.

“This was not a police drone.

“Police, supported by a range of partner agencies and working closely with Gatwick Airport, are currently examining relevant sightings by 115 witnesses – 93 from credible witnesses, people used to working in the busy airport environment, including a pilot, airport staff and police officers.”

Anyone with information should contact Crimestoppers, anonymously if you want, on 0800 555 111 or through the non-traceable anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.